While the Swedish model has dominated most of the debate over whether lockdowns are the correct policy in dealing with COVID-19, very little attention has been paid to New Zealand and Australia. Remarkable when one realizes that the United States has probably more in common with both aforementioned countries than Sweden. But then again, the only reason the opponents of lockdown policies have latched on to Sweden is not because it is comparable to America but because they believe it is a silver bullet against Dr. Fauci’s attempt to rule the world (evil laugh).
Over a month ago, The Guardian reported:
“At no time in New Zealand’s history has a power like this been used, and I recognise how extraordinary it is,” New Zealand’s prime minister, Jacinda Ardern said on Thursday.
“We need to do this for the health of the country, and our people.”
New Zealand’s ban begins at midnight on Thursday. Australia’s begins at 9pm local time on Friday.
In New Zealand the ban will apply to all countries and nationalities, but the partners and children of New Zealanders would still be allowed in. Those bringing in freight on ships or planes will also be exempt.
In Australia, the prime minister, Scott Morrison, said the ban was being put in place because most of the cases of Covid-19 cases in the country had come from overseas. Anyone who is not a citizen, resident, or close family member of a citizen or resident, will be denied entry, he said.
Remarkable that the crowd that has been chanting “Built The Wall” for that last four years has ignored New Zealand and Australia banning foreign nationals from entering their country. Instead, they are throwing their lot with the approach that deems closing borders “ridiculous”. Anything to stop Dr. Fauci’s evil plan, O guess.
Today, New Zealand’s Prime Minister declared victory over COVID-19:
“There is no widespread, undetected community transmission in New Zealand,” Ms Ardern declared. “We have won that battle.”After nearly five weeks at the maximum Level Four restrictions – with only essential services operating – the country moved to Level Three late yesterday.
That will allow some businesses, takeaway food outlets and schools to reopen. Many businesses began preparing over the weekend to restart operations this week while maintaining social distancing rules.
Eateries announced contactless delivery plans. Retailers showcased their latest collections on their website for home delivery orders. Office towers posted social distancing rules on elevators and public areas.
Parliament and courts across the country will also resume operations from today.
However, Ms Ardern stressed that public gatherings remain banned, and she asked people to remain in their “bubble”, or with their close relatives.
The Land Down Under has a similar success story to tell. Australia has recorded 6,720 COVID-19 cases and only 83 deaths:
Perhaps if our political class had acted quickly, today we would have a curve that looks like Australia’s. Alas, that’s not the case.
